CPAP vs. Oral Appliance: Which is Better for Sleep Apnea? A Respiratory Therapist's Take
Key Takeaways
- CPAP therapy delivers a continuous stream of positive airway pressure to the soft tissues of the throat to prevent them from collapsing during sleep.
- An oral appliance, like a retainer, is worn over the teeth to reposition the jaw and create more space for air to reach the lungs.
- An oral appliance may be an option for mild to moderate apnea. But CPAP remains the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea.
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to complications, including an increased risk of accidents, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. This is why treatment is essential. Treatment options include CPAP therapy and oral appliances. Learn more about both options to help you determine which is right for you.
What is CPAP Therapy?
CPAP delivers continuous positive airway pressure via a CPAP machine to keep the airways open during sleep. The machine delivers a stream of pressurized air through a mask to prevent the tongue and tissues at the back of the throat from blocking airflow into the lungs.
Pros and Cons of CPAP Therapy
Below is a table listing the pros and cons of CPAP therapy. It is also important to understand that, for some cons, such as side effects, there are tips to manage discomfort.
|
CPAP |
PROS |
CONS |
|
Effectiveness |
Considered the gold standard in treating sleep apnea. Treats mild to severe sleep apnea. |
Effectiveness depends on consistent nightly use with 6–8 hours being ideal. |
|
Sleep quality |
Helps improve sleep quality.
|
Can take an adjustment period to get used to. |
|
Portability |
Travel CPAP machines are an option which are lightweight and portable. |
Must pack CPAP machines and supplies when traveling. Standard machines may be cumbersome. |
|
Noise |
Reduces snoring dramatically |
Machines can make noise if there is a leak. |
|
Side Effects |
Many side effects are treatable with adjustments. |
Can cause side effects, such as dry mouth, bloating, and skin irritation. |
What are Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea?
An oral appliance is a custom-made device that fits over the teeth while you sleep to help maintain an open airway. Two main types of oral appliances for sleep apnea include:
- Mandibular Advancement Device: With sleep apnea, the tongue and the muscles at the back of the throat can collapse during sleep, narrowing the airway. A mandible advancement device shifts the lower jaw, tongue, and surrounding tissues forward. This creates space in the back of the throat behind the tongue and decreases airway resistance. It allows more air to pass through, reducing pauses in breathing.
- Tongue-Retaining Device: This type of device is used much less frequently than a mandibular device. A tongue-retaining device holds the tongue forward during sleep to prevent it from falling back and blocking the airway.
Pros and Cons of Oral Appliances
Below is a table explaining the pros and cons of using an oral appliance to treat sleep apnea. Oral appliances are custom-made, and adjustments may be necessary to improve effectiveness and reduce side effects.
|
Oral Appliance |
PROS |
CONS |
|
Effectiveness |
Effective for many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. |
Not as effective for severe sleep apnea |
|
Sleep quality |
Generally improves sleep. |
Jaw discomfort can affect sleep. May not improve sleep quality in people with moderate to severe apnea. |
|
Portability |
Small, lightweight and no electricity needed. |
May be easy to misplace. |
|
Noise |
Silent |
May not completely decrease snoring and some people may grind their teeth more. |
CPAP vs. Oral Appliances: Key Differences
The key difference between CPAP and oral appliances is in how they work to reduce a blocked airway and decrease apnea. CPAP delivers a continuous stream of pressurized air to keep the airway open. Oral appliances reposition the anatomy to enlarge the airway space and allow air to flow through. CPAP is also considered the gold standard and is more reliable than an oral appliance for treating more severe or complicated cases.
My Thoughts as a Respiratory Therapist: Choosing the Right Treatment for You
As a respiratory therapist, CPAP therapy is usually the most reliable and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, especially moderate to severe OSA. In my practice, I have found that most people overcome initial discomfort and side effects of CPAP after a few weeks.
However, an oral appliance may be an option for an individual with mild to moderate sleep apnea who does not tolerate CPAP. An oral appliance can also be used as a part of combination therapy along with CPAP. Wearing an oral appliance may allow for much lower CPAP pressure levels, which may be more tolerable for some.
The bottom line is that the right treatment for you may depend on your anatomy, the severity of your sleep apnea, and what you can stay consistent with.
Where to Find the Best CPAP Products
Whether you're just starting CPAP therapy or looking for a new mask or comfort accessories, The CPAP shop has the products to help you stick with your therapy.
The CPAP Shop offers a variety of machines, tubing, masks, and accessories to improve your comfort, which is key to better sleep and overall health. For support, competitive pricing, and trusted brands, please visit The CPAP Shop today!
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Resmed AirMini Auto Travel CPAP Machine | Full AirSense Therapy in Your Carry-On20 Reviews$919.00 Regular Price $999.00 -
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ResMed Mirage FX for Her nasal mask complete systemAs low as $115.00 Regular Price $127.00
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